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We’re looking at Google Pixel 4a vs 5 to find out which is the better purchase.
The Google Pixel 4a was released in 2020 and remains a great option for those looking to spend less. Its predecessor was the Pixel 3a, a popular smartphone praised for its camera quality and budget value but has since been discontinued. The Pixel 4a has suffered a similar fate, and it’s worth knowing that the 4a will only receive software and security updates until August 2023. But how does it compare to the Pixel 5, and which smartphone should you buy?
The Google Pixel 5 is still going strong and was also released in 2020. In the two years since, it’s received excellent reviews, boasting an even better camera and OLED display. Though the Pixel 5 remains a great value choice, we’re drawn to Google Pixel 6 vs Pixel 6a as slightly more durable phone choices in 2023.
You may be weighing up which phone to go for, and how it matches up to what your main usage will be – whether that be for everyday browsing, streaming content, or even gaming.
To help in your decision, we’re comparing what we think are the key comparison areas between Google Pixel 4a and Pixel 5. Expect a total breakdown from specs to features, including a discussion of design and value for money, all to help you make an informed choice.
So let’s jump in! Here are the differences and similarities between Google Pixel 4a vs Pixel 5. It’s also worth keeping an eye on the Google Pixel 8 release date news, which our friends at WEPC have covered extensively.
Google Pixel 4a vs Pixel 5 – Specs
| Specs | Pixel 4a | Pixel 5 |
| Display | 5.81 OLED | 6 inch OLED |
| Resolution | 1080 x 2340 | 1080 x 2340 |
| Refresh rate | 60Hz | 90Hz |
| Chip | Qualcomm SDM730 Snapdragon 730G | Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G |
| RAM | 6GB | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB | 128GB |
| Rear cameras | 12.2 MP wide, | 12.2MP wide |
| Front camera | 8MP | 8MP |
| Battery size | 3,140mAh | 4,080mAh |
| Charging | 18W | 18W |
As you can see from the table above, there’s plenty of overlap between these two phones. We’ll start with the notable differences.
The Pixel 5 boasts a higher overall performance with 8GB of RAM compared to the 4a’s 6GB. It’s the same story for refresh rates – the Pixel 4a has just 60Hz compared to the 5’s 90Hz. If you’re a heavy phone user, you’ll therefore find the Pixel 5 copes better with intensive use.
Read More: Best Google Pixel 5 case – our top picks
The superior refresh rate of the Pixel 5 however is on an OLED screen with the exact same 1080 x 2340 resolution. The Pixel 5 does have a slightly larger screen, and you’ll notice that the later Pixel models similarly grow in screen size. This is certainly the case when we compared the latest Google Pixel 7 vs Pixel 7 Pro.
You’ll also notice that the Pixel 5 has the edge in terms of battery life, which is a welcome bonus considering it has the edge in performance. And, whilst they charge at the same rate, the Pixel 5 also boasts wireless charging while the 4a does not. However, some users might also prefer the 4a because it has a 3.5mm headphone jack, while the Pixel 5 does not.
Moving onto their similarities, both have the same quality camera which makes the 4a price point all the more impressive. They also each have the same charging capability, capped at 18W.
Google Pixel 4a vs Pixel 5 – Design
Both these phones have a similar design.
The 4a boasts soft corners, with matte black as the main color, shared with its 3a predecessor. Before being discontinued by Google, the 4a was available in a ‘Barley Blue’ color variant. The screen is also made with Gorilla Glass, making the Pixel 4a scratch resistant.
This rounded body is shared with the Pixel 5, which also boasts the same square camera protruding from the metal back. This is also where the fingerprint scanner is located.
Read More: Google Pixel 7a release date speculation
There are a few subtle differences between the two though. For example, the Pixel 5 is made with the slightly more durable Gorilla Glass 6, whereas the 4a only uses Gorilla Glass 3. This makes the Pixel 5 the potentially more secure option against bumps and scratches.
Google Pixel 4a vs Pixel 5 – Price
Comparing these two in price is complicated because they have both been discontinued by Google. This is not because of any fault with the devices but is simply Google’s standard practice when they release an updated version of a phone.
Because of this, unless you’re looking for a second-hand phone, you can only really find these phones refurbished. While in its day the Google Pixel 5 retailed for a higher starting price, you can now find them both for a very similar cost, though the 4a is generally the slightly cheaper option.
Price Check:
Which one should you go for?
Whilst the Pixel 4a matches the Pixel 5 when it comes to camera, display, and storage, we think your best bet is to go for the Pixel 5.
Not only is the Pixel 5 boasts a more powerful performance when it comes to RAM and refresh rate, but as the newer phone, it will receive Google security updates at least until October 2023.
If this sounds like a concern for you, consider opting for a later Pixel model. Ultimately, a smartphone is an investment. It’s less worthwhile to buy a new one, only for it to be unsupported less than a year after buying it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Pixel 5 waterproof?
The Google Pixel 5a isn’t waterproof but is water resistant and rated IP70. This means the phone should survive submersion in fresh water up to one meter for 30 minutes.
Why is Google Pixel 4a so cheap?
Google Pixel 4a is highly affordable now because it has since been discontinued by Google, meaning it will only receive security updates until August 2023.
